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The class of drugs called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, as the class name suggests, reduces the activity of angiotensin converting enzyme. ACE converts angiotensin I produced by the body to angiotensin II in the blood. Angiotensin II is a very potent chemical that causes the muscles surrounding blood vessels to contract and narrow the blood vessels. Narrowing of blood vessels increases the pressure within the blood vessels and may lead to high blood pressure (hypertension).
By reducing the activity of ACE, ACE inhibitors decrease the formation of angiotensin II which leads to widening (dilation) of blood vessels, and thereby reduces blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure against which the heart must pump, the amount of work that the heart must do is reduced. ACE inhibitors also reduce blood pressure in the kidneys, slowing the progression of kidney disease due to high blood p...
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Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
Altace Capsules (ramipril capsules) are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Altace belongs in a class of drugs called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. This product is available in generic form. Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, or tiredness as your body adjusts to the medication. Dry cough may also occur. Serious swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat called angioedema may occur with drugs of this class (ACE inhibitors). Stop medication and contact your doctor immediately if any of the listed side effects occur.
The recommended initial dose for Altace is 2.5 mg once per day initially. Dosage may be gradually increased as needed and if tolerated. Medications that may interact with this drug include diuretics (water pills), lithium, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, aspirin or other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen. A very serious reaction may occur if you are getting injections for bee/wasp sting allergy and are also taking Altace. Tell your doctor all medicines you are using. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may harm a developing fetus. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Our Altace Capsules Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information as well as related drugs, user reviews, supplements, and diseases and conditions articles.
What is Prescribing information?
The FDA package insert formatted in easy-to-find categories for health professionals and clinicians.
Altace (ramipril capsules) is indicated in patients 55 years or older at high risk of developing a major cardiovascular event because of a history of coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, or diabetes that is accompanied by at least one other cardiovascular risk factor (hypertension, elevated total cholesterol levels, low HDL levels, cigarette smoking, or documented microalbuminuria), to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or death from cardiovascular ...
Read the complete drug monograph for Altace Capsules »
Drug Description - Indications & Dosage - Side Effects & Drug Interactions - Warnings & Precautions - Contraindications - Medication Guide and More
What is Patient information?
Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; severe stomach pain; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
Read the complete patient information for Altace Capsules »
Possible Side Effects - Images - What Is - How Should I Take It - What If I Miss a Dose - What Should I Avoid and More
What is Consumer information?
A concise overview of the drug for the patient or caregiver from First DataBank.
Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor and works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.
OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labe...
Read the complete consumer information for Altace Capsules »
Warnings - Uses - How to Use - Side Effects - Precautions - Drug Interactions and More
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Get tips on handling your hypertension.